Meet Trailblazer Ashaunti Thompson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashaunti Thompson.

Ashaunti, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Atlanta. Sounds magical right? Well, it is. Especially, when you live a creative life like I choose to. I left Orlando, FL and moved here in 2008. I was challenged by my husband to venture off into entrepreneurship via the arts. Everyone that I met was either an artist, in the entertainment industry or your regular 9-5 joe. It was all so exciting to me, challenging to be something I knew nothing about; an artist! My teachers and mentors are the type artists that said ‘hey Ashaunti! I need some help with a project come on over!’ That’s how I learned, by simply putting down the fear of the unknown and showing up. I learned how to paint, design jewelry, body paint, sew clothing/home décor, curate, and model.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Has my voyage been a smooth road? No, but I wouldn’t change any of my experiences as an artist. I’ve learned how to say NO, only because saying ‘yes’ to everyone else’s vision slows yours down and will burn you out, quickly.
My advice to young women just starting their journey is to create standards for yourself, your brand, and have expectations. I know my limits and they are made clear with whomever I engage. These things will develop with time as you are ushered into womanhood. Don’t rush.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Awanights – what should we know?
I am a creator…

I make beautiful hand painted jewelry. My AWA Mask and abstract style is what I am best known for on this branch of my creativity

I body paint, and have done so alongside one of Atlanta’s best Rio Sirah. I am the resident stylist and body painter for @pangeasgarden, and my private clientele as well.

I am a seamstress. I sew for local boutiques, contractually with film production studios, wholesale orders for bowties, and always be on your toes for my AWA Pop Up shops, where exclusive designs are presented.

I am most proud of my brand as a whole. I am able to bring your party to life with my body painting, I help bring your ‘look’ to life with my beautiful jewelry, and I can make your daughter’s prom dress. My services bring light to your vision. Yeah, I’m proud of that and it certainly sets me a part.

Which women have inspired you in your life?
Women that I’m inspired by. First is my Mommy, Carla Thomas (@luxedesignerresale). She is always the first woman to always encourage any of my ideas, she invests in my visions, demonstrates what it means to be fearless in this world of entrepreneurship. And of course, she loves me, and that is infinite inspiration.

I look at Grace Kisa’s (@studiokisa) art work and am inspired. It teaches me patience, to work in layers, and to always try something new. I get excited when she leaves me a little ‘star’ emoji on work I may post on social media, or when she pops up at an event I’m a part of. It’s like a nod of encouragement, who doesn’t need that!?

I am also inspired by myself. I am forever evolving. Art has definitely helped guide me into my womanhood, it helps me to express myself when I can’t find the words. AWANIGHTS is my ESSENCE, your POWER and our FEMININTY personified. My brand inspires me.

Contact Info:

• Email: awanights@gmail.com
• Instagram: @awanights
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awanights/

Image Credit:
Vincent Christie – Photography, Ashaunti Thompson – clothing/jewelry

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.